Nation pays glowing tribute on Kargil Vijay Diwas; PM Modi, Prez Murmu honour heroes

New Delhi, Jul 26: India observed the 26th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas on Friday with solemn pride and patriotic fervour, paying heartfelt tributes to the valiant soldiers who laid down their lives during the Kargil War of 1999. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu, and top military officials led the nation in remembering the supreme sacrifices made to defend India’s territorial integrity.

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Prime Minister Modi, in a tribute shared on social media platform X, wrote, “Heartfelt greetings to the countrymen on Kargil Vijay Diwas. This occasion reminds us of the unparalleled courage and valour of those brave sons of Mother India who dedicated their lives to protect the nation's pride. Their passion to sacrifice everything for the motherland will continue to inspire every generation. Jai Hind!”

President Droupadi Murmu echoed similar sentiments, stating, “On the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, I pay my heartfelt tribute to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the motherland. This day symbolizes the extraordinary valour, courage, and steadfast determination of our jawans. Their dedication and supreme sacrifice for the nation will forever inspire its citizens. Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!”

Joining the tributes were top military officials - Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, and Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi - who also paid their respects to the fallen heroes.

Remembering the Kargil War

Kargil Vijay Diwas, observed every year on July 26, commemorates India’s historic victory in the Kargil War of 1999. The conflict began in May when Pakistani troops, disguised as militants, infiltrated and occupied strategic high-altitude positions along the Kargil sector in Jammu and Kashmir.

In response, the Indian Army launched Operation Vijay - a daring military campaign to reclaim the territory under extremely challenging weather and terrain conditions. After nearly two months of intense combat, Indian forces successfully pushed the intruders back across the Line of Control. Victory was declared on July 26, 1999, but it came at a heavy cost - the lives of 527 brave Indian soldiers.

This day serves as a reminder of the courage, resilience, and strategic brilliance of the Indian Armed Forces, and of the sacrifices that made the victory possible.

Ceremonies across the Nation

The central event of Kargil Vijay Diwas was held at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras, Ladakh, where senior military officials and family members of the martyrs laid wreaths to honour the fallen.

Across the country, commemorative events were organised to pay homage to the soldiers. Patriotic cultural programmes, special tributes, and exhibitions highlighted stories of courage from the battlefield. Schools and colleges conducted quizzes, speeches, and awareness activities to instil a spirit of nationalism among the youth.

New initiatives by Indian Army

In a bid to deepen public participation and honour the memory of Kargil’s heroes, the Indian Army introduced new digital and public outreach initiatives. These include an ‘e-shradhanjali’ portal, allowing citizens to pay their respects online, and a QR code-enabled audio app narrating real-life stories of bravery from the conflict.

Furthermore, a new viewpoint  the Indus Viewpoint at Batalik was opened to the public, offering a panoramic view of the Line of Control and helping visitors understand the strategic significance of the mountainous terrain where the conflict unfolded.

A Legacy of inspiration

As India marked 26 years of victory, Kargil Vijay Diwas stood as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Indian soldier. It continues to inspire generations, reinforcing the values of courage, patriotism, and unwavering commitment to the nation.